English Reference
Noun

unfolding

n. uncountable
B2 Upper Intermediate US /ənˈfoʊɫdɪŋ/ UK /ʌnfˈəʊldɪŋ/ un·fold·ing

n.the way a story or a series of events happens over time. You use it to describe how a situation develops step by step.

n.the process of a situation or narrative developing and becoming clearer as time passes.


SIMPLE

The unfolding of the story kept everyone interested.

CONTEXTUAL

Journalists across the country provided live updates on the unfolding of the political crisis as new evidence emerged.

COMPLEX

The slow unfolding of the mystery allows the author to build tension without relying on cheap shocks or sudden plot twists.

Usage

Often used with 'of' to describe the development of a specific event or narrative.

Today, human-caused carbon emissions and warming are unfolding vastly faster than during the PETM.

The Conversation· 13 Aug 2026

Many pieces engaged with larger debates unfolding across the Jewish world, including the rise of Hitler and the consequences his growing power might have for Jewish communities in Ireland and abroad.

JSTOR Daily· 1 Jul 2026
This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Frequent
Updated